RFK Jr. stacks FDA panel with peptide peddlers as FDA scientists oppose access

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has once again influenced the composition of a federal advisory panel, pushing his agenda to challenge the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) position on several controversial injectable peptide drugs. Despite warnings from FDA scientists in 2023 about the lack of evidence supporting the benefits of these drugs alongside potential safety concerns, Kennedy, an outspoken supporter of these treatments, has expressed his determination to dismantle what he perceives as the FDA's 'aggressive suppression' of these therapies. In a recent update, the FDA expanded its advisory panel by adding nine new members, most of whom are known for advocating peptide usage and have financial connections to wellness clinics that provide such treatments. This strategic move has expanded the panel to a total of 13 advisors, significantly increasing the likelihood that the upcoming meetings will yield favorable outcomes for Kennedy's initiatives. The FDA has released briefing documents ahead of the advisory meetings scheduled for July 23 and 24, where the panel will review seven specific peptide therapies. The discussions will cover peptides like BPC-157 for ulcerative colitis, KPV for wound healing and inflammation, TB-500 for wound healing, and MOs-C for obesity and osteoporosis on the first day. The second day will delve into emideltide for opioid withdrawal, chronic insomnia, narcolepsy, semax for cerebral ischemia and migraines, and epitalon for insomnia. Furthermore, another meeting is slated to occur before the end of February 2027, where advisors will examine the possibility of allowing compounding pharmacies to produce these unproven peptides for human use. Currently, the FDA prohibits these pharmacies from manufacturing the peptides in question for this purpose, although they are permitted for research use. The Pharmacy Compounding Advisory Committee, now populated with pro-peptide advocates, is at the forefront of this critical discussion.